The Original Cast Of Hawaii 5-0: A Look Back

When we talk about classic crime dramas, "Hawaii Five-0" is a title that immediately comes to mind. The show, which aired from 1968 to 1980, featured an iconic cast of characters who captured the hearts of viewers worldwide.

The original cast of "Hawaii Five-0" consisted of Jack Lord as Steve McGarrett, James MacArthur as Danny Williams, Kam Fong Chun as Chin Ho Kelly, and Zulu as Kono Kalakaua. These four actors brought their own unique talents and charisma to their roles, creating a dynamic and unforgettable ensemble.

The importance of the original cast of "Hawaii Five-0" cannot be overstated. They were the foundation of the show's success, and their characters became synonymous with the series. Without them, "Hawaii Five-0" would not have become the cultural phenomenon that it is today.

The legacy of the original cast of "Hawaii Five-0" lives on today. The show has been rebooted several times, but the original series remains the gold standard. The characters of Steve McGarrett, Danny Williams, Chin Ho Kelly, and Kono Kalakaua are still beloved by fans around the world.

hawaii 5 0 original series cast

Origins of the Show's Concept

The idea for "Hawaii Five-O" came to producer Leonard Freeman while he was vacationing in Hawaii. He was struck by the beauty of the islands and the laid-back lifestyle of the locals. He also noticed the high crime rate in Hawaii. The show became known for its exotic locations, beautiful scenery and interesting storylines.

The Show's Main Characters

The show's main characters were Steve McGarrett (Jack Lord), Danny Williams (James MacArthur), and Chin Ho Kelly (Kam Fong Chun). Steve McGarrett was the leader of the Five-O task force. He was a former Navy SEAL and a decorated war hero. He was a tough and dedicated cop who was determined to keep Hawaii safe.
Danny Williams was McGarrett's second-in-command. He was a former New York City cop who had come to Hawaii to escape his past. He was a skilled detective and a loyal friend.
Chin Ho Kelly was a native Hawaiian who had served as a police officer in Honolulu. He was an expert on Hawaiian culture and customs. He was also a skilled martial artist.

Cancellation and Legacy

The original series ran for 12 seasons from 1968 to 1980. It was one of the most popular shows on television during its time and helped bring Hawaii to the attention of tourists and travelers. It was nominated for numerous awards and was considered one of the greatest TV shows ever made.

hawaii 5 0 original series cast

The original cast of "Hawaii Five-0" played a vital role in the show's success. They brought their own unique talents and charisma to their roles, creating a dynamic and unforgettable ensemble.

• Iconic Characters: Steve McGarrett, Danny Williams, Chin Ho Kelly, and Kono Kalakaua are some of the most iconic characters in television history.
• Chemistry: The cast had amazing chemistry, which was evident on screen. They were able to play off of each other's strengths and weaknesses, creating a believable and engaging team.
• Diversity: The cast was diverse, which reflected the multicultural population of Hawaii. This diversity added to the show's realism and relatability.
• Longevity: The cast remained with the show for its entire 12-season run, which is a testament to their dedication and commitment.
• Legacy: The cast's legacy lives on today. They are still remembered and loved by fans around the world.
• Cultural Impact: The cast helped to popularize Hawaiian culture and tourism. They also inspired a new generation of actors and filmmakers.
• Awards and Recognition: The cast was nominated for numerous awards and accolades. They won several Golden Globe Awards and Emmy Awards.

The original cast of "Hawaii Five-0" was a major factor in the show's success. They created iconic characters, had amazing chemistry, and represented the diversity of Hawaii. Their legacy lives on today, and they continue to inspire fans around the world.

Iconic Characters

The original cast of "Hawaii Five-0" played a vital role in the show's success. They brought their own unique talents and charisma to their roles, creating a dynamic and unforgettable ensemble.

• Cultural Impact: The characters of Steve McGarrett, Danny Williams, Chin Ho Kelly, and Kono Kalakaua had a profound impact on popular culture. They helped to popularize Hawaiian culture and tourism. They also inspired a new generation of actors and filmmakers.
• Diversity: The cast was diverse, which reflected the multicultural population of Hawaii. This diversity added to the show's realism and relatability.
• Longevity: The cast remained with the show for its entire 12-season run, which is a testament to their dedication and commitment.
• Chemistry: The cast had amazing chemistry, which was evident on screen. They were able to play off of each other's strengths and weaknesses, creating a believable and engaging team.

The iconic characters of "Hawaii Five-0" continue to inspire fans around the world. They represent the best of what television has to offer: great storytelling, complex characters, and a timeless appeal.

Chemistry

The original cast of "Hawaii Five-0" had amazing chemistry, which was one of the key factors in the show's success. The actors were able to play off of each other's strengths and weaknesses, creating a believable and engaging team. This chemistry was evident in every scene, and it helped to make the show one of the most popular and enduring crime dramas of all time.

• Trust and Respect: The cast members trusted and respected each other both on and off screen. This trust and respect allowed them to take risks and experiment with their characters, which resulted in some of the show's most memorable moments.
• Shared Vision: The cast members shared a common vision for the show. They wanted to create a show that was both entertaining and informative, and they were all committed to making that vision a reality.
• Sense of Humor: The cast members had a great sense of humor, which helped to create a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere on set. This sense of humor also translated to the screen, and it helped to make the show more enjoyable for viewers.
• Diversity: The cast was diverse, which reflected the multicultural population of Hawaii. This diversity added to the show's realism and relatability, and it also helped to create a more dynamic and interesting team.

The chemistry between the original cast of "Hawaii Five-0" was one of the key factors in the show's success. The actors were able to create a believable and engaging team, and their chemistry was evident in every scene. This chemistry helped to make the show one of the most popular and enduring crime dramas of all time.

Diversity

The original cast of "Hawaii Five-0" was diverse, reflecting the multicultural population of Hawaii. This diversity added to the show's realism and relatability, making it more appealing to a wider audience.

• Representation: The diverse cast of "Hawaii Five-0" represented the different ethnic groups that make up the population of Hawaii. This representation was important for viewers who could see themselves reflected in the characters on screen.
• Authenticity: The diversity of the cast added to the authenticity of the show. It showed that Hawaii was a multicultural society, and it helped to create a more realistic portrayal of the state.
• Relatability: The diverse cast made the show more relatable to viewers from all backgrounds. It showed that "Hawaii Five-0" was a show that everyone could enjoy, regardless of their race or ethnicity.
• Cultural Exchange: The diversity of the cast helped to promote cultural exchange. It introduced viewers to different cultures and customs, and it helped to break down stereotypes.

The diversity of the original cast of "Hawaii Five-0" was one of the key factors in the show's success. It made the show more realistic, relatable, and appealing to a wider audience. It also helped to promote cultural exchange and understanding.

Longevity

The longevity of the original cast of "Hawaii Five-0" is a testament to their dedication and commitment to the show. They were all committed to making the show a success, and they were willing to stay with it for the long haul. This dedication and commitment paid off, as the show became one of the most popular and enduring crime dramas of all time.

• Loyalty: The cast members were loyal to the show and to each other. They were all committed to making the show a success, and they were willing to put in the time and effort to make it happen.
• Professionalism: The cast members were all professionals who were dedicated to their craft. They were always prepared for their roles, and they always gave their best performances.
• Passion: The cast members were all passionate about the show. They loved the characters they played, and they loved working together. This passion was evident in every episode of the show.
• Chemistry: The cast members had amazing chemistry on screen. They were able to play off of each other's strengths and weaknesses, and they created a believable and engaging team.

The longevity of the original cast of "Hawaii Five-0" is a testament to their dedication, commitment, professionalism, passion, and chemistry. These qualities were essential to the show's success, and they helped to make it one of the most popular and enduring crime dramas of all time.

Legacy

The legacy of the original cast of "Hawaii Five-0" is undeniable. They created iconic characters, had amazing chemistry, and represented the diversity of Hawaii. Their impact on popular culture is still felt today, and they continue to inspire fans around the world.

One of the most important aspects of the cast's legacy is their impact on the representation of Asian Americans in television. Prior to "Hawaii Five-0," there were few Asian American characters on television, and even fewer in leading roles. The show's success helped to break down barriers and pave the way for more Asian American actors and actresses to find success in Hollywood.

The cast's legacy is also evident in the show's continued popularity. "Hawaii Five-0" has been rebooted several times, and the original series remains a fan favorite. The show's iconic characters and stories continue to resonate with audiences around the world.

The legacy of the original cast of "Hawaii Five-0" is a testament to their talent, dedication, and impact on popular culture. They created a show that was both entertaining and groundbreaking, and their work continues to inspire fans around the world.

Cultural Impact

The original cast of "Hawaii Five-0" had a profound cultural impact. They helped to popularize Hawaiian culture and tourism, and they inspired a new generation of actors and filmmakers.

Prior to the show's debut in 1968, Hawaii was a relatively unknown tourist destination. However, the show's beautiful scenery and exotic locations quickly made it a popular vacation spot. The show also helped to introduce Hawaiian culture to a wider audience. Viewers were fascinated by the show's depiction of Hawaiian traditions, music, and dance.

The show's impact on popular culture is still felt today. Many of the show's characters and storylines have become iconic, and the show has been referenced in numerous other works of popular culture. The show has also inspired a new generation of actors and filmmakers, many of whom have gone on to successful careers in Hollywood.

The cultural impact of the original cast of "Hawaii Five-0" is undeniable. They helped to popularize Hawaiian culture and tourism, and they inspired a new generation of actors and filmmakers. Their legacy continues to this day, and they remain an important part of Hawaiian history and culture.

Awards and Recognition

The numerous awards and accolades that the cast of "Hawaii Five-0" won are a testament to their talent and dedication. Their work on the show was consistently praised by critics and audiences alike.

The cast's Emmy Awards are particularly noteworthy. The Emmy Awards are one of the most prestigious awards in television, and winning an Emmy is a major accomplishment. The cast of "Hawaii Five-0" won two Emmy Awards for Outstanding Drama Series, and they were also nominated for several other Emmy Awards over the course of the show's run.

The cast's Golden Globe Awards are also a major accomplishment. The Golden Globe Awards are awarded by the Hollywood Foreign Press Association, and they are one of the most prestigious awards in film and television. The cast of "Hawaii Five-0" won two Golden Globe Awards for Best Television Series - Drama, and they were also nominated for several other Golden Globe Awards over the course of the show's run.

The awards and recognition that the cast of "Hawaii Five-0" received are a testament to their talent, dedication, and hard work. They created a show that was both entertaining and groundbreaking, and their work continues to inspire fans around the world.

FAQs

This section provides answers to frequently asked questions about the original series cast of "Hawaii Five-0".

Question 1: Who were the main cast members of the original "Hawaii Five-0" series?

Answer: The main cast members of the original "Hawaii Five-0" series were Jack Lord as Steve McGarrett, James MacArthur as Danny Williams, Kam Fong Chun as Chin Ho Kelly, and Zulu as Kono Kalakaua.

Question 2: How many seasons did the original "Hawaii Five-0" series run for?

Answer: The original "Hawaii Five-0" series ran for 12 seasons, from 1968 to 1980.

Question 3: What was the impact of the original "Hawaii Five-0" series on popular culture?

Answer: The original "Hawaii Five-0" series had a significant impact on popular culture, helping to popularize Hawaiian culture and tourism, and inspiring a new generation of actors and filmmakers.

Question 4: What awards and accolades did the cast of the original "Hawaii Five-0" series win?

Answer: The cast of the original "Hawaii Five-0" series won numerous awards and accolades, including two Emmy Awards for Outstanding Drama Series and two Golden Globe Awards for Best Television Series - Drama.

Summary: The original "Hawaii Five-0" series cast had a profound impact on popular culture. Their iconic characters, chemistry, and diversity made the show a success, and their legacy continues to inspire fans around the world.

Conclusion

The original cast of "Hawaii Five-0" was a major factor in the show's success. They created iconic characters, had amazing chemistry, and represented the diversity of Hawaii. Their legacy lives on today, and they continue to inspire fans around the world.

The impact of the original cast of "Hawaii Five-0" cannot be overstated. They helped to popularize Hawaiian culture and tourism, and they inspired a new generation of actors and filmmakers. They also won numerous awards and accolades for their work, including two Emmy Awards for Outstanding Drama Series and two Golden Globe Awards for Best Television Series - Drama.

The legacy of the original cast of "Hawaii Five-0" is a testament to their talent, dedication, and hard work. They created a show that was both entertaining and groundbreaking, and their work continues to inspire fans around the world.